When COVID-19 hit in early March, despite all things food being classified “essential,” the food system completely changed overnight. Farmers markets were shut down and while most have reopened, some remain closed. Restaurants switched from dine-in to take-out dramatically reducing patronage and purchasing needs. Food processing plants closed. For farmers, all aspects of the food system have changed – from on-farm health and safety protocols to supply chains and markets. Many farms have adapted, setting up farm stands and selling out CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares.
However, we’ve also heard from a number of farmers looking for assistance navigating all of the new resources available to adapt and survive today’s challenges.
In response, KCD has coordinated a new service: The KCD Farm Help Line and Navigation Service.
The Farm Help Line connects King county farmers with KCD farm resource planners and staff to help navigate the resources available in this ever-changing world. We have information on funding and financial resources, on-farm assistance, labor help, safety protocols, marketing opportunities, legal support, business management, stress management, and shared resources.
KCD’s Farm Help Line and Navigation Service is open to King county farmers, and can be reached at 425-773-1864 or carrie.king@kingcd.org.